An Eskimo Birthday

Young Eeka lives in Point Hope, Alaska, well above the Arctic Circle where there is little daylight during the winter months. It's her birthday and Eeka is hoping that her mother may have found the right fur for the newly made velveteen parka that her mother has just made for her. However, with the coming of a storm, her attention moves towards the safety of her father who may be caught in the great winter storm that has developed while checking his traps. From Eeka escorting her younger cousin home from school, to the stories of survival and legend told by Eeka's grandfather, young (and older) readers will be introduced to a bit of Eskimo culture. Lastly, Glo Coalson's lovely and descriptive illustrations are integral to the book. Note: There exist questions concerning the appropriateness of usage of the term "Eskimo." However, this excellent story may lead to greater exploration of the cultures of various indignoues peoples of Alaska.

A very well-written book, by an Alaskan, about an Eskimo girl. The story, which takes place in a single day, is woven throughout with the old and new ways of Eskimo Life. We follow Eeka as she fights the wind on her way home from school, shops at the brand-new store with her mother, and listens to her grandfather tell of big storms of the past. When the party begins & the guests arrive, there is caribou soup, delicious fish, laughter & presents and cakes. A very well-done Alaskan children's book!